Every pregnant woman will have different complaints. One of the most common is nausea and vomiting, which generally occurs in the early trimester. This symptom of nausea and vomiting in the medical world is called morning sickness. Morning sickness is a term used to describe nausea and vomiting that is often experienced by pregnant women. Although called "morning sickness" these symptoms can occur at any time of the day.
It is very common, and around 70-80% of pregnant women experience some level of nausea or vomiting during their pregnancy. Morning sickness at a severe level can make it difficult for pregnant women to move. So what causes morning sickness and how to overcome it? let's see the explanation below.
What is Morning Sickness?
Morning sickness is a common medical condition in early pregnancy, characterized by nausea and vomiting. Although more common in the morning, morning sickness can last throughout the day and even at night. It usually starts around the 4th to 6th week of pregnancy and can continue until the 14th week or longer in some women.
Causes of Morning Sickness
The exact cause of morning sickness is not fully understood, but some factors that are believed to influence it include:
Hormonal Changes
During early pregnancy, the body experiences an increase in hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen. This increase in hormone levels is believed to be one of the main causes of nausea and vomiting.
Sensitivity to Odors and Flavors
Many pregnant women become more sensitive to certain odors and tastes. So, if you feel uncomfortable with an odor it is better to avoid it for a while so as not to trigger nausea and vomiting.
Digestive System Changes
Hormonal changes can slow down the digestive process, which can lead to nausea and abdominal discomfort.
Stress and Fatigue
Emotional and physical stress can also trigger or worsen symptoms of morning sickness. Make sure moms have good quality sleep around 7-8 hours and do not do activities that make the body weak.
Genetic Factors
If your mother or sister had severe morning sickness, you may also be more at risk.
Symptoms of Morning Sickness
Symptoms of morning sickness vary from one woman to another, but the most common ones include:
- Nausea: A feeling of nausea that can occur at any time of the day.
- Vomiting: Vomiting that often follows nausea.
- Sensitivity to Odors: Increased sensitivity to certain odors that may trigger nausea.
- Loss of Appetite: Unwillingness to eat due to persistent nausea.
- Fatigue: Excessive fatigue due to constant nausea and vomiting.
How to Manage Morning Sickness
Coping with morning sickness requires a varied approach, depending on the severity of the symptoms. Here are some ways that can help:
- Eating small, frequent meals can help keep blood sugar levels stable and reduce nausea.
- Identify and avoid foods, smells, or situations that trigger nausea.
- Eating snacks such as biscuits, toast, or fresh fruits in the morning before getting out of bed can help reduce nausea.
- Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking water, herbal tea, or broth. Avoid caffeinated and carbonated drinks which can worsen symptoms.
- Ginger is known to have anti-nausea properties. Consuming ginger tea or ginger candies can help relieve nausea.
- Getting enough rest can help reduce fatigue and stress that can worsen morning sickness.
Consult your doctor about vitamins or supplements that may help reduce symptoms. Vitamin B6, for example, has been shown to be effective in reducing nausea in some pregnant women. If symptoms are severe and cannot be alleviated by lifestyle changes, your doctor may prescribe pregnancy-safe anti-nausea medications.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If morning sickness in pregnant women is severe, causing dehydration, weight loss, or inability to retain food and fluids, consult a doctor immediately. This condition is called hyperemesis gravidarum and requires medical treatment.
Morning sickness is a common condition experienced by many pregnant women. While it can be uncomfortable, there are many ways to manage these symptoms and keep both mom and baby healthy. If pregnant women experience severe or worrisome symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a doctor for medical help and advice. (Aq/MKK)
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